Southwest Youth Emergency Shelter was an emergency shelter in Swift Current, which served homeless youth in Southwest Saskatchewan.

The eight-bedroom facility provided shelter to youth of all genders; ages 14 to 17. The board of directors pursued their vision to provide a safe, supportive living environment for youth through skill building, connectivity with family and community, as well as positive health and life choices. Unfortunately, the shelter closed its doors Oct. 5, due to a financial shortfall. While the board of directors hold on to hope for support from the Provincial Government, employees of the shelter cleaned and prepared the building for closure last Thursday. Now that the once bustling youth shelter is closed, Dorie’s House is now empty. Residents in the community as well as the board of directors await a response from the province. President of Dorie’s House Robert Hale is appreciative of the interest the Minister of Social Services, the Honorable Paul Merriman has taken in the Youth Emergency Shelter. “We were very grateful that the minister of social services attended a tour and learned about Dorie’s House. He asked great questions and showed interest in our program and the services we offer. He confirmed that he was not able to make any commitment but would consider a proposal for funding,” Hale explained. “We have put together a detailed proposal that can be delivered to the Minister early next week. In addition, we continue to work with the Ministry to provide information about what we have learned about the need for service in the Southwest while still respecting privacy rules.”The board of directors and residents of Swift Current remain optimistic and hopeful that a partnership with the Provincial Government can be formed.